Incident Summary
An ATP-rated pilot was conducting sightseeing rides in a four-passenger helicopter carrying two adults and two children. The density altitude at the time was 10,000 feet. During the initial takeoff, the aircraft experienced a loss of power, prompting the pilot to abort the takeoff and land.
Subsequent Events
After completing an engine runup, the pilot attempted a second takeoff. The helicopter was brought to a hover and began maneuvering to return to the loading area. While turning, the tail rotor struck a fence and was severed. The helicopter then made an uncommanded right turn, and the pilot performed a hovering autorotation to land.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident inspection of the helicopter revealed evidence that a plug was missing from the intake manifold. No further details regarding the aircraft identification, operator, or injury status were available from the source.